The Philippines is an island nation of turquoise seas, white-sand beaches, and vibrant cities, where nature and urban energy sit side by side. You can explore islands, historic districts, and lively neighbourhoods in one trip.
Discover Philippines
Discover Philippines
Why visit Philippines?
What to expect
Expect a mix of bustling hubs like Manila and Cebu, and laid-back islands fringed by reefs and mountains. English is widely spoken, and the atmosphere is friendly, relaxed, and easy to navigate for first-time visitors.
Plan your trip
Many travellers start in Manila or Cebu before flying on to island destinations across the archipelago. The Philippines also works well as part of a wider Southeast Asia journey, with strong air links through Singapore.
Top experiences in Philippines
Explore historic Intramuros in Manila
Walk the cobbled streets of Intramuros, Manila's old walled district, and discover restored colonial buildings, leafy plazas, and riverside viewpoints.
Island-hop from Cebu
Use Cebu as your base to reach nearby islands with coral reefs, waterfalls, and quiet coves ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and laid-back days by the sea.
Visit Manila Bay and its waterfront
Stroll along Manila Bay's promenade at dusk to enjoy sea views, cooling breezes, and the city skyline lighting up for the evening.
Discover Cebu's heritage sites
See Cebu's historic churches, plazas, and fortifications that tell the story of the city's role as a trading and cultural hub in the region.
Go diving and snorkelling
Head from major gateways like Cebu to nearby marine parks for clear-water dives, reef snorkelling, and encounters with tropical fish and colourful corals.
Shop and dine in Makati and Bonifacio Global City
Spend time in Manila's modern districts for stylish malls, dining streets, galleries, and parks that showcase the city's contemporary side.
Take a countryside day trip from Cebu
Leave the city behind to visit nearby hills, rivers, and coastal villages, combining light hikes, scenic lookouts, and time in nature.
Experience Philippines's way of life
Getting around
To cover longer distances between islands, domestic flights from Manila and Cebu are the fastest option, with ferries linking nearby islands. Within cities, taxis, ride-hailing apps, and organised transfers are the most convenient ways to get around.
Local life & culture
Life in the Philippines moves to an easy, sociable rhythm, from Manila's busy business districts to Cebu's waterfront and neighbourhood plazas. You will find a blend of local traditions and modern influences, with arts, music, and festivals adding colour throughout the year.
Where to unwind
Across the country you can relax on palm-fringed beaches, swim in calm bays, or escape to hillside resorts surrounded by greenery. In Manila and Cebu, urban parks and seaside promenades offer quieter corners to pause between sightseeing and shopping.
A taste of Philippines
National dishes & specialties
Filipino cuisine features comforting dishes such as adobo, grilled meats, and seafood stews, with Manila and Cebu both known for hearty home-style cooking and fresh coastal flavours. Each region adds its own twist through marinades, sauces, and local ingredients.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Manila's Makati, Ortigas, and Bonifacio Global City, and in Cebu's central districts, you will find everything from simple eateries to modern cafes and bistros. Expect a mix of Filipino favourites, Asian flavours, and international options that make it easy to dine well whatever your taste.
Signature & scenic dining
For something special, look for rooftop venues and waterfront restaurants in Manila Bay and Cebu with skyline or sea views. Many hotels offer refined takes on local dishes, paired with city or harbour panoramas for a memorable evening.
Retail therapy in Philippines
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Manila's major malls, such as those in Makati, Pasay, and Bonifacio Global City, bring together international brands, local labels, cinemas, and dining. Cebu also has large lifestyle centres that combine shopping with leisure and family-friendly spaces.
Markets & local crafts
In and around Manila and Cebu you can find markets and speciality shops selling handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Regional products from across the Philippines, including woven items and homeware, are often available in city markets and curated boutiques.
Evening retail scene
In the evenings, Manila and Cebu's malls and surrounding streets stay lively, with illuminated storefronts, late-opening shops, and outdoor dining. Some neighbourhoods also host occasional night markets that blend street food with stalls selling clothes and accessories.
Best time to visit Philippines
The dry peak season typically runs from December to April (peak season), when days are warm and relatively less humid, with average temperatures around 25–32 °C (77–90 °F) in Manila and Cebu, ideal for beach and outdoor activities. The shoulder season is usually from May to early June and again in November (shoulder season), with hotter days, brief showers, and average temperatures of 26–33 °C (79–91 °F), which can be good for travel if you prefer fewer crowds. The wetter months from late June to October (low season) bring more frequent rain and occasional storms, especially in coastal areas, with temperatures around 25–31 °C (77–88 °F), often offering quieter resorts and greener landscapes.